94 points
"Col Solare, a collaboration between Chateau Ste. Michelle and Italy’s Marchese Piero Antinori, is coming into its own. The terrific 2002 Col Solare is unquestionably the finest to date. A blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 20% Syrah, it explodes from the glass with aromas of black fruits, tar, and licorice. Armed with gorgeous intensity, this broad, medium to full-bodied wine displays tar, blackberry, rose, and dark cherry flavors reminiscent of a top-notch Italian wine. Pure, powerful, and studded with exquisitely ripe tannin, this gem also reveals a long, suave finish. While it can be aged for up to 10 years, I suggest drinking it over the next 5-6 as I believe its flavor profile will ultimately be dominated by cedar and tobacco flavors."
Best 2006-2012